China will lead global coalition on cyber-sovereignty

Subject

China's efforts to promote its model of internet governance.

Significance

The announcement that as of March 10 foreign businesses will be barred from publishing online content in China is the latest result of Beijing's determination to police the national boundaries of what it sees as its sovereign territory in cyberspace.

Impacts

• IT and related infrastructure will become part of China's regional cooperation efforts, including the SCO and 'One Belt, One Road'.
• Import substitution and domestic favouritism will make China an increasingly difficult market for foreign technology suppliers.
• China will try to consolidate a status quo through small steps, coalition-building and participation in international organisations.